Wirral Council secures extra funding to continue its Business Support Service for another 12 months. Tony McDonough reports

Since it was launched in 2022 Wirral’s Business Support Service has helped 318 would-be entrepreneurs and 81 new start-up ventures.

Now Wirral Council, which runs the service which offers practical help to start or grow a business, says it will continue for another 12 months to March 2027 after it secured extra funds from Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Local Growth Fund.

This service has supported hundreds of businesses and entrepreneurs in Wirral since 2022, helping them build resilience, develop growth plans, access specialist programmes and create jobs for local people.

It will now continue for another 12 months after new funding was secured by the council from the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority’s Local Growth Fund.

Since 2022 324 local businesses have received intensive and tailored support, helping them to plan, overcome challenges, unlock growth opportunities, improve productivity and build long-term company resilience.

More than 200 full time equivalent jobs have been created as a direct result of the support offered, helping residents access new employment opportunities

The extension means residents and businesses of all sizes, from all sectors, can continue to access fully funded, local support, delivered by Wirral Chamber of Commerce, without disruption.

Support is offered in local venues and through hybrid appointments so that businesses and entrepreneurs can access support in a way that suits them.

Cllr Mark Skillicorn, chair of Wirral Council’s Economy, Regeneration and Housing Committee, said: “Supporting people to start businesses and working with established SMEs to grow and scale, while also creating job opportunities, is something the whole team is immensely proud of.

“From supporting someone with an idea through to SMEs seeking clarity and guidance on strategic and financial planning, leadership and management, HR and marketing, our team is here to support Wirral businesses to take the next step.

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From April 1 the service has been operating from Wirral Chamber’s base, which will also offer hot‑desking and co‑working facilities for start-up entrepreneurs.

To arrange an initial informal discussion, email in**@**************co.uk or complete the online enquiry form by clicking here.